WHAT IS POST-ACUTE WITHDRAWAL SYNDROME?

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Book a personal counseling session with Dr. KJ Foster here 👉bit.ly/kjcalendly

[@marcusgenz4020]

My post-acute withdrawal lasted eighteen months. It has been eight years since I recovered.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi Marcus - Thanks for sharing your experience. You fall exactly into the average curve of 18 months 💯 Congratulations on your 8 years 🎉

[@John-wg1jh]

I am about 11 months in. 18 months is the average? Good Lord.

[@leonidtodorovski635]

Well it depends of how you taking care of your self if you push hard and workout hard every day clean diet fasting meditating you can cut the tile on half

[@garysimone4977]

​@@leonidtodorovski6350l how feeling

[@Isaiyah69]

​@@leonidtodorovski635i dont experience any mental issues but i have extreme body aches, can someone please help me because I don't understand because it been 2 months now

[@CreamyBeige]

I am almost 50 days sober after YEARS of binge drinking (I am also recovering from 18 years of bulimia so my brain has a lot of healing to do). I’ve been told my limbic system is pretty out of whack by a doctor. I felt fantastic at first and then BOOM - vertigo and severe panic attacks out of the blue. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve always had panic disorder but these panic attacks had me running up and down in a panic. Absolutely horrendous. I have had blood tests, been to the hospital for scans and numerous testing by doctors and then I had the realisation that it could be PAWS. Brain fog/anxiety/anhedonia/nervousness/insomnia etc. I mean wow, this absolutely sucks but like hell is this going to beat me. Good luck everyone.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Good luck to you, Cola. Sorry for the late reply. I'm just seeing your comment now.

[@These-nutz]

Hope you’re still doing alright 🙏

[@agustindejesus7398]

Mid, good luck to you. Hope you keep healing. Those vertigo days are a pain in the butt. I get that vertigo and it is no fun.

[@laurenawal33]

Such valuable information that people would pay for! My worst PAWS symptoms were sheer terror /paranoia and flashbacks which I still have a bit of. You have saves me from many close relapses. I'm 10 months clean anx starting to feel a bit bored and stressed so I always turn back to you. Diet and exercise has helped me through everything!

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Wow! 10 months is so awesome, Lauren!! Congratulations 🎉🎉 Yes, the recovery thing can get boring, but that could also be a part of PAWS. Move a muscle, change a thought. Keep moving forward. You are doing so great!! Thanks so much for watching and sharing your experience 💜

[@laurenawal33]

@@DRKJFOSTER thank you so much, Dr. Foster! You have also been very, very instrumental in all of this and I'll forever be grateful for you and what you do ❤

[@DRKJFOSTER]

@@laurenawal33 I have a good friend who is at 11 months sober and she is experiencing a lot of what you have been sharing. The thing to remember is that it does eventually get better and better as your mind continues to detangle, but it takes a lot of time, with many moments where your mind will tell you otherwise, such as "this sucks, I'm miserable" or "I was happier when I was drinking" or "F-it" or whatever the lie of the day is. Don't believe your thinking. Recovery takes a lot more time than most people know or understand. And, if it were easy then everyone would be sober. But it's not easy, but IT IS WORTH IT!! I can guarantee you of that! You are doing great, Lauren, and know that I am here with you and rooting for you!! 👏😊🏋️‍♂️👊

[@laurenawal33]

@@DRKJFOSTER such a kind and honest message! Thank you for sharing about your friend! Life definitely is better which helps me through those crazy thoughts. I really appreciate you!!

[@sangeetalambh6389]

Lauren W did u feel fatigue like no spirit in body and stomach cramps in ur withdrawal please ans I m 99 days sober

[@texasbradley]

As the spouse of a recovering Adderall abuser, this video has helped the most so far. As per the counselor my spouse is not to talk with anyone that is not in recovery, including me. I didn't understand that but I see that I could be an emotional trigger. I'm not the most patient man but this has tested me for sure, made me have more patients.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

I'm so glad to know you found it helpful. Thanks for letting me know and for watching.

[@maryann3063]

This information is so important for everyone in Recovery to know I didn’t know this in my first two years and went through everything that you’re talking about this is such a godsend and passing this on because I know what it’s like to suffer and be so confused thank you for this imperative information! What an Education!

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Thank you for watching and sharing your experience 💜🙏🤟

[@MrHotboxhero]

This video was shown to me in my first days of treatment. Learning about PAWS through this video was hands down the most helpful / valuable knowledge I’ve learned in treatment. I could never make it past 10 days of sobriety, for years I tried. I am coming up to 100 days sober and could not have done it without this knowledge. This video has changed my life and I can not be more grateful. I can not thank you enough, I’ve shared this video at least 20 times with people in the struggle and will continue sharing. THANK YOU!!

[@DRKJFOSTER]

You're welcome. I'm so glad you found it helpful!

[@sangeetalambh6389]

Mrhotboxhero did u feel fatigue like no spirit in body and stomach cramps in ur withdrawals please answer I m 87 days sober.

[@MrHotboxhero]

@@sangeetalambh6389 congratulations on 87 days, that is a huge accomplishment. It’s different for everyone, for me I was very easily irritated. I had a pretty thin skin (was taking things way too personally). There was one instance where I startled my wife when I came into the kitchen, this nearly brought me to tears I was so upset! And I really didn’t know why I was so upset. I also had a pretty poor appetite. I am now 14 months sober and don’t have any PAWS symptoms anymore. Some days / situations can be difficult but I’ve learned how to accept these, move through them, and take inventory of what I’m grateful for often. Finding a sober community online and in person to be a part of has been a huge help. If you haven’t already check out r/stopdrinking on Reddit, that is an awesome online community full of support. Hang in there Lambh, it does get better!

[@jamesochoa3022]

My son is in heroin addiction recovery and I have made so many mistakes in his early stages of recovery! This is so helpful !

[@DRKJFOSTER]

I'm glad you found it helpful, James. I was once where you are. I didn't know what I didn't know until I knew it. You are taking action to become educated, which is a huge step in the right direction. Wishing you and your son a healthy holiday and continued healing in 2021.

[@criticalmass6249]

Make sure you guys celebrate any and all small victories. One day at a time.

[@larrybrown2171]

It’ll be two years for me this May. I figured it would take about that long after thirty years plus of hard drinking. It’s good to be sober.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Congratulations, Larry 👏 Sobriety is the greatest gift I have ever given myself. Keep going and thanks for sharing and helping me to get to know you. Would love for you to keep me posted along the way 💜

[@BuffaloBarber24]

How are you feeling Larry?

[@mycatiswaysmarterthanmosto8500]

I dont know you. You dont know me. But I just want to congratulate you, and tell you how glad I am you're better. Stay strong buddy. We got this!❤

[@marvelwithmonmoy]

Im here for the 3rd time . Right now im clean for 1 year and 2 months . All my symptoms have gone. I workout ,i go walks with friends gossip a lot, being more religious than ever etc. Thanks for keep me motivated ❤️. It was really a great journey. I can't believe i stopped it . Never going back to that life never ever .

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Congratulations!!

[@avreetarrant5291]

How long did you experience PAWS

[@diefilmkitchenjohannessand2173]

What medication have you been on? Thx a lot

[@joseeallyn9950]

Thank you for this ! My grandbabies were adopted from birth. They were born cocaine addicted. My daughter and her husband stayed at the hospital for a week while the babes went through withdrawal. She said it was harrowing because the babes would weep, cry, not like babies do for food, but really cry real tears and sob like adults. Of course we watch them for signs but they are very bright and seem to be OK. One is normally quiet but sometimes will rage , really rage. unfortunately he has bad allergies and she gives him Benadryl, since listening to you I am going to caution her not to use it. Obviously we have to be careful in future. Your blog is very informative, Thank you.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi Josee. I'm sorry to hear that your grandbabies had to go through that but glad you are educating yourself and are now in a better position to take precautions. I'm glad you found this to be informative. Sending you and your family love and prayers.

[@CollinMPLS]

Thank you so much. Not my first time getting sober but had Zero idea about PAWS and it's stages. It explains why my recovery only lasts upwards of a few months. This will help immensely...day 10, sponsored and active in AA, will use your tools in conjunction with that program. Time to take this as an opportunity to grow, prosper and help others. 🙏

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi Collin - I'm so glad to know you found this video to be helpful. You are not alone in your ignorance about PAWS. I, too, knew nothing about it when I was first getting sober and it would have helped me so much back then. Glad to be able to get this info out there.

[@chriseffect7505]

Hey up hows the paws going

[@CollinMPLS]

@@chriseffect7505 No more paws, just life changes and seasonal sickness. 9 months no booze

[@armandogameros4313]

Thank you so much. I’ve struggled for many years, with relapsing in between. I never knew what PAWS was,but you not only explained it well, but you also gave advice on what to expect and how to manage it. Thank you.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

You are so welcome!

[@Mebbe308]

I’m 73, taken codeine for years for chronic back pain. I’ve stopped taking it and this info is very good

[@DRKJFOSTER]

I'm glad to know you found it helpful 💜

[@sarahdonahue1433]

Relief. Release. Reassurance. Thats what i felt after watching this video. I quit drinking 5 mos ago and am struggling w certain aspects and was beginning to feel like it was a failed experiment until i heard Dr Fosters information. I am so happy I came across this channel. I was searching for insomnia and recovery and watched the caffeine video which led to the paws video. Both videos have changed everything for me. I have a whole new outlook. Thank you so much, Dr Foster!

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi Sarah - I am so glad to know this video was so helpful for you. So many people aren't aware of PAWS and its impact. Congrats on the 5 months. Keep going, it gets better!

[@toddmagsamen5893]

So it's not the full moon... I was nearly ready to check myself in for mental help today. My personality has been completely out of whack the past 2-3 days (I'm 40 days sober). Critical of people and extremely irritable. I start crying out of nowhere in public. Moments later I'm fine and then it comes again. My memory is so shot I don't remember where I'm going on the bus, important dates, even what I'm supposed to be doing at a present time. I feel this information on PAWS is vital to recovery. Glad to know some ways to cope with PAWS now. Thanks!

[@DRKJFOSTER]

You're welcome. Glad to know uou found it helpful.

[@jayallen2441]

Campral (acomprosate) helps with PAWS. I did medical detox and trazadone at night and campral during the day helps

[@ginnyshutt7725]

I am currently going thru the same thing! I’ve been off Ativan for 3 months . I was abusing it for 10 years not realizing the damage I was doing. I’m sitting in my bed saying somthing isn’t right. I don’t feel right in the head. I have so many highs and lows my family doesn’t understand because they think I should be feeling better by now. I just want to start feeling better but I have a long way to go!

[@Army1SGRetired]

This information is invaluable, I have re-watched the video handful of times with numerous pauses and rewinds to really get your message to sink in. There is such a limited amount of information on PAWS, and I'm so happy to see you continuing to address it and put out reaffirming content. What really caught my attention was the subtle spectrum of varying potential symptoms depending on the substance that someone has used. I have never seen anyone break down PAWS like that by substance, it was quite an eye opener. I quit my SSRI 24 months ago, then alcohol 6 months ago, and benzos about 3 months ago. What gets me is the quitting wasn't actually difficult in my case, I guess I'm just lucky in that respect. I was a consistent drinker for most of my life, having a few beers or cocktails most Thursdays thru Sundays. As for the benzo, I was prescribed after the mother of all panic attacks in 1999 and I took it twice a day for about 4 months and the weaned off with no issues. I continued to fill the prescription (1mg Lorazepam) so I always had some for emergencies, but at most I would take it 1 or 2 times a week. Sometimes I would go a stretch of months without using it. Unfortunately the PAWS symptoms are alive and well, compounded by a very stressful job and difficult management where I work. Fatigue, constant negative rumination, apathy, and depressive feelings are my worst symptoms and have been pretty consistent since quitting alcohol and benzos. I read somewhere that benzos are like "alcohol in a pill" because of how they impact GABA receptors similar to alcohol. I can definitely attest to that because calming feeling is a lot like the relaxation after a few beers. So I'm trying to keep my spirits and hopes up and remind myself that this shall pass and someday I'll feel better, but if there's a light at the end of the tunnel it's realllly dim and distant. I find it hard to believe that my past limited benzo use could be what has me in this state, but compounded with decades of alcohol use I can see that it's likely all intertwined and my poor brain has just been battered and beaten. I love your content Dr. Foster, and your willingness to be so open accessible to your audience. I like the message of embracing symptoms as 'healing', it makes them less scary and helps us to be less reactionary. I will try very hard to keep this in mind in my day to day life.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Thank you so much for sharing your experience, Ed! I'm sure it is going to help others who are struggling. It looks to me like you have a good understanding of what you are up against, and more importantly that you ARE - and will continue - getting through it. Sounds to me like any issues with the SSRI are behind you at 24 months. You also seem to be exactly where many people are with your history for the length of time 6 mo alcohol / 3 mo benzos you have been in recovery. And that light you mention, it will start to get brighter and brighter as the months continue. I love that you are taking action and seeking out as much info as you can to help you move through your symptoms. When in doubt, always take action and do something. Anything is better than sitting with your own thoughts. Thanks again for your feedback and sharing 💜

[@Army1SGRetired]

@@DRKJFOSTER I feel like I'm sort of at a crossroads at the moment. I hate the idea of reinstating the SSRI but on the really tough days that's where my mind goes. I have zero intention of ever going back to alcohol or the benzo. I'm at a point where I wonder whether I have waited long enough and should be seeing some relief, or whether an SSRI is necessary. I keep hoping that if I can hold out long enough I will attain some of the relief and healing you have spoken and written about.

[@Army1SGRetired]

@@zonnebloem100 a bit better, it's very slow going. How are things with you?

[@debbiefinn6483]

Have u tried lyrica.. My Dr put me on these n they rely helped me...

[@Army1SGRetired]

@@debbiefinn6483 I haven't tried that exact medication but I've tried a few anti depressants with marginal improvement.

[@Sean-sn9ld]

I've done about 50 detox's and I haven't known about PAWS at all. I'm a few days into PAWS after doing a heroin and Subutex(i was snorting) cold turkey and this video is really helpful thank you. I was buzzing around cleaning the house , full of energy, everything. And the past few days I've felt terrible again and got annoyed with myself for not having motivation and stuff but this video amongst a few others you've made has really cheered me up, thank you so much

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi Sean - I'm so glad to know you found this helpful. Good luck with your recovery process.

[@Sean-sn9ld]

@@DRKJFOSTER thanks :) I'll come back in a few days to update how I'm getting on :)

[@sangeetalambh6389]

@@Sean-sn9ld how r u now

[@Sean-sn9ld]

@@sangeetalambh6389 doing good on subs thanks :)

[@1coolmister579]

Your videos have been such a blessing. Thank you so much. I'm coming up on a year and a half from decades of using marijuana. Some things that struck me was embracing the symptoms, instead of fearing them. Thinking of them as healing symptoms. Also learning to relax, taking it easy on myself. Lastly learning to be patient with the recovery. Thanks again for the lesson.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

I'm glad you found it helpful, Mac. Congrats on approaching your 18 month mark!! That's so awesome 👍⭐💪

[@tanzeelbajwa5203]

J and J. How are you feeling now? I have also used cannibas for 15 years heavily and still having issues after 3 years of quitting. I am not sure I am going through PAWS or something else.

[@MrMung2]

Lol. Marijuana withdrawal? At its worst, it might itch. You don't know withdrawal.

[@brushstroke3733]

Thanks for your comment. I went through PAWS about 6 months after giving up alcohol and cigarettes. Now I'm going through it again and again after finally giving up chronic cannabis use for 27 years. I feel depressed and disinterested in doing anything. I wish I could simply go to sleep and stop living sometimes. It's somewhat reassuring to know another former chonic cannabis user has been through this.

[@1coolmister579]

@@brushstroke3733 Hang in there, you will make it through it. I understand how you are feeling, I had those same feelings. It’s the worst, it’s hell! But you can do this! 27 years is a long time therefore you have to give it time and patience. I know that’s easy to say but you must. It’s hard but it’s worth it.

[@irenapawlak3053]

I wanted to say two things: 1) Thank you for sharing your story; 2) Thank you for this video! I am therapist and for some reason no one know about PAWS. Your video, even including Google Scholar, was the most informative, relevant, and REAL. Keep up the great work and know that you are saving a lot of lives! :) xoxo, Irena

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi Irena - Sorry for the late reply. I'm just seeing your comment. I'm glad you found the information helpful and appreciate your kind words. I have found the same to be true about the limited knowledge regarding PAWS. Thanks again. I hope you have a great day!

[@edp445lover]

I relapsed after being 5 months sober because I didnt know about paws. Now that I low about it I will not relapse no more because I know my brain will heal and I will be ok, but it takes a very long time. Thanks dr

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi Sade! Glad to know you are back on track. Congrats on your sobriety!!

[@mycatiswaysmarterthanmosto8500]

I have every symptom you mentioned, including the memory issue. This is so accurate.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

I'm glad you could relate. So much of this type of information is beneficial in the knowledge that it is normal and to be expected.

[@adamkuzer472]

ALL I TELL ANYONE AFTER 10+ YRS OF 7 BARS A DAY ...EVERYDAY...U CANT EVEN PUT INTO WORDS WHAT U AN UR BRAIN GO THROUGH....WHEER I DIDNT KNO WHO I WAS...DIDNT RECOGNIZE MY OWN CLOTHES...FEET WERE 24/7 BLOCKS OF ICE...COLD SWEATS I HATE EVEN MORE AN U KNO THAS A FEW OF SOOOOOO MUCH...U REALLY WANNA DIE....BUT UR NOT "YOU" ITS A EFFED THING AN ONCE U BITTEN ITS WAYYYY TO LATE!!!!

[@Creativeabandon]

"When we straighten out spiritually, then we straighten out mentally and physically" ❤

[@susanzoeckler4926]

This is one of the most helpful videos I've watched. Thank you so much! I have to add that exercise for me includes dancing -- I crank up my tunes & dance like a wild woman. It is a purely joyful form of exercise & the music is therapeutic in its own way.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Glad it was helpful!

[@LC-se8pw]

I can't help but be angry about everything I'm dealing with. I'm not an "addict", I was on Oxy for 5 years due to an autoimmune disease and so became dependant. I accidentally went through withdrawal when I was unable to see my doctor on time for my script. That changed how I saw my medication. I got my script after 2 days, filled it, took it for a week then decided enough. I stopped cold turkey, no looking back. It was hell for two weeks. Since then I've been fatigued, extremely anxious, irritable, I still have stomach problems... It's still hell, just a different sphere of it. This on top of the autoimmune disease is making life so damn hard. I never knew what was waiting for me. None of my doctors (I have many for various health problems) ever told me what was coming. It's frustrating. My respect for recovering addicts is so high. I can't imagine how much harder this would be if I was addicted rather than dependant. The mental symptoms must be so much worse. You're so damn strong, keep going! ❤️

[@DRKJFOSTER]

HI LC - You are not alone in your experience or feelings. Thanks for watching and for sharing your experience.

[@gabrielbeck1079]

I relapsed because i didn't know about paws, I was sober for 3 months and felt great and then BAM! it hit me. All I know now is the brain can recover and your neurotransmitters can recover but it's just gonna take a LONG time. And I gotta be prepared. Thanks for the video

[@DRKJFOSTER]

You're welcome! So glad you found it helpful.

[@tiablasangoriti8347]

Thank You for sharing this critical information about PAWS. This opened up a whole new perspective for me as a Codependent Empathic SLD Man. I attracted female addicts and alcoholics for decades. Wow. Now I see a few things differently.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi Bill - Wonderful! I'm so glad to know you found it helpful. Have a great day.

[@Longbeef]

Currently 1 year and 11 months sober from drinking and smoking pot. Severe symptoms lasted about 4 months , now I'm fluctuating week to week with mild to moderate symptoms, gotta hang in there because I know it won't last forever and healing takes a very very long time . Cheers

[@andreamorato1529]

I'm 6 months sober from THC and I'm still depressed 😢😢

[@Longbeef]

@@andreamorato1529 hi there . Yea it's anhedonia. I'm going through it too. My symptoms keep fluctuating . It's a sign that your healing though .

[@andreamorato1529]

​@@Longbeef I really hope so because I'm very desperate. I wanna be happy and motivated again.😢😢

[@Longbeef]

@@andreamorato1529 yesterday I felt absolutely terrible for 2 days and it subsided this morning About 75%. Don't worry , your healing. The brain is very very smart and knows what it needs to do. Your gonna be ok . 🙂🙂

[@andreamorato1529]

@@Longbeef thank you very much for your support 😊 I went to the psychiatrist and he prescribed me antidepressants but I don't want to take them. But it's hard to deal with this anedonhia

[@pamelagolenor9809]

I've been doing as much research as I can about PAWS... reading.. videos. I don't have a lot of sobriety time. So I'm feeling crappy. All the paws symptoms... I'm 49. Binged a lot of Coors lite for many years. Getting too old for this partying crap. I have probably a year before I'll feel normal again. I'm glad I can understand this process & not feel alone. Thank you all for sharing

[@DRKJFOSTER]

You're welcome. Glad you found it helpful.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Leave a COMMENT and HELP OTHERS by sharing your experience with POST-ACUTE WITHDRAWAL. Thanks for watching 💜

[@coolbeans6148]

Im at 4 months. My heart pounds and starts skupping beats from just sitting up out of a chair, ir walking up stairs. Is this normal? Blood pressue is high somtimes its normal.

[@coolbeans6148]

Should i be on meds? I read anti depprsants are bad for paws. And im not deporessed.

[@AmandaGam17]

I’m 3 weeks or 21 days after my last dose of 1Ml of methadone. I tapered all the way down to 1Ml. I was at 130 it took me 3 years to tapper. When will the post acute withdrawal start normally? I run around 2-3 miles 4 times a week, acupuncture, chiropractor. No cravings, unless it’s sweets.

[@Fastloaderstocks]

I love to exercise but the fatigue is too much during paws, I have a good day than exercise and I am wiped for days after. Its a vicious circle. Thank you for your expertise ❤️❤️❤️

[@DRKJFOSTER]

I believe that will improve over time, especially if you are mindful of your nutrition as well as your exercise. That's also very important. Thank you for watching, Ollie.

[@baba10000]

I'm having the same experience, 90 days clean and even light workouts make me feel like I got sick having a fever. Are you still clean did it get better?

[@hertribe1978]

My word! I never knew about this stage! I literally thought i was going crazy! I blamed this on a "Pink Cloud" but it kept changing this clarification means a lot

[@thomascropper2865]

As a loved one, this video was so incredibly helpful 🙂

[@DRKJFOSTER]

I'm so glad you found it helpful ☺

[@confounded_feline]

I want to thank you now Dr. Foster for such a powerful video. I didn't realise writing this it would be so long so my gratitude should at least be at the forefront. I've struggled with every symptom on this list. In particular, I have a hard time pushing out intrusive thoughts of persecution for the guilt I feel. Dwelling too much on what could have been. I'm a couple of weeks off 31. When I was a teenager through to my mid 20s I took recreational drugs fairly regularly with friends, although I never had a relationship of addiction with them. Despite this, I can't discount how this coud've certainly affected my neurochemistry for the worse. When I went to university in 2011 from 19-22, I moved country to attend and subsequently lived there for 3 additional years after. I experienced for the first time upon moving away from home bad social anxiety which I believe may have always been there but masked by always being in the presence of a large friend group, one which I'm fortunate to still have. I encountered tramadol by accident while studying and while I didn't use it for an extended period then, I had noticed a side effect that it completely eradicated my anxiety which was crippling my fresh adult life. At 23 I went through a period of seeking out tramadol when moving into the work place which I used in what is considered large doses. For 3-4 months I took that and ceased without much affair perhaps due to a younger, less abused brain able to bounce back quick. Although in hindsight I can see that I had a lot of emotional volatility then in my relationships. At 25 I had a period where I took codeine in large doses (~250-500mg) for about 5 months before stopping, this was intertwined with tramadol use once more although sporadically and never together. At 27 I struggled with my new job in my home country (I'm a software engineer - only notable because of the mental rigour, constant learning and disciplined focus required to maintain quality work). The stress and anxiety from that, travelling overseas for work in a capital city to live for 6 months I was taking tramadol again regularly. Although, for a time, it was good as these short-term boons are. This ran from mid to late 2018 through to Jan 2021. In the period between Nov 2019 and Sept 2020 I had 4 tonic-clonic seizures from the doses I was taking. Aware of the seizure risk and over double the safe dosage amount - I took up to a gram per day, it was so severe that maintaining my responsibilities became impossible. I entered a recovery program Nov 2020 and tapered my dose down considerably but strategically. In Jan 2021 I stopped but moved to codeine which I subsisted on for another month until complete cessation in Feb 2021. The acute withdrawals were harrowing. I took time off work for a month but I learned very quickly that getting over that hill does not mean you're healthy again. I learned about PAWS but perhaps I didn't appreciate it fully. Naively in July I began to take some codeine again, it was sporadic at first but inevitably I became addicted and dependant on it. My mental health had improved a lot, I thought. It wasn't until the start of this year where I was making strong in-roads to getting up to good health. With the exception of the pandemic year I had been religious with the gym and home cooking and I'm back at the gym again at least. However, cutting codeine and with work responsibilities piling up. I felt like I was going to mentally collapse. A week ago I phoned my GP to discuss this, and, the new-to-me intrusive thoughts of self harm. Subsequently my GP gave me a month's sickline off work. Very swiftly, 1 week in I've cut my codeine usage down to the point where I'm clean 1 day now. I did this because I know I need as much space post-acute withdrawal because as you say Doctor, you are not yet out of the woods, in the clear and ready to jump two feet first back into normal life. This cessation doesn't feel the same as before in terms of intensity of acute symptoms, maybe they're still to come. I am however experiencing all of the PAWS symptoms. I feel as if I have lost a lot of myself and damaged my brain from years of tampering plus the substance abuse. I'm in a feedback loop that keeps me anxious and withdrawn, anhedonic and guilt ridden for failing to live up to my responsibilities. I deeply desire to connect with my friends but ironically do not feel I have the capacity to socialise, and, as a consequence, I fear losing the relationships. I'm afraid of myself and my unpredictable emotional volatility and its effect on the people around me. It saddens me that this all was wrought from fear - the social anxiety, and the search for some reprieve and succor through short sighted means despite knowing it was always a band-aid covering a wound that would require true healing to go away. Instead, I let it fester and monopolise my 20s. This is healing that still lies in my future since fear can only be conquered through facing it courageously and if you're lucky, with the support of others. I recently came into the possession of what is worth about 4 months of my full salary from a car crash I was in two weeks ago. I am considering if this money is better spent not on a replacement car but on subsistence to extend my leave of absence in order to afford myself more recovery time. I know there is a long road ahead, and I weep for my partner, family and loved ones for how they will struggle with me and I cannot fully turn myself outwards towards them while I am egocentrically absorbed in my own inner turmoil. Nonetheless, it's something I am committed to trying to balance lest I victimise myself and inculcate a victim mindset from the rumination. My goals now are to affect every corner of my life I have control over - maintaining my weightlifting, returning to the home cooking I have loved for over half of my life and re-establishing structure in accumulating all the daily routines and healthy habits I have let fall by the wayside. I believe strongly, from everything I have learned and from my own past experience, that a lot of mental health and positive well-being is downstream from this. It was work stress that was the trigger that broke me again (stress insensitivity?) so I never gave myself the chance to truly recover. It's hard to see what a healthy mind is like from this position. I've thought to myself I feel like I'm in the passenger seat of my life or that life stopped in late 2019 and I've just been living in the after credits sequence. Yet, I recognise that this is the sign of a sick mind. However, I haven't forgotten what a healthy mind and body has felt like despite feeling like this shell of my former self. I can only hope when I come out the other side that I haven't lost a lot of myself, the life I am grateful to have and the people in it. I didn't really intend on this to be a blog post so thank you to anyone out there if you've read this so far. There is some catharsis in this for me of course, but I also believe from having read many comments on this video before feeling moved to post that there is power and solace in solidarity from taking in the experiences of others.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi there! Thank you so much for sharing your journey in such detail. This is going to help so many others, because what you describe is so common, in terms of the way dependency and addiction starts to develop over time. For many, it happens over a very long period of time, and the impact on the brain and the behavior is so hard to even identify because of the slow insidious nature of it. It is also common for people to use substances that are initially providing a solution, such as relieving anxiety. This was definitely the case for myself and my husband. I believe your thought to apply the compensation you have gained toward your recovery process is a good one. Going to the gym and being good to your body physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually will help your recovery process tremendously. That said, it is definitely going to be a long road, I will not minimize that because it is important to expect. Which, again, is why taking advantage of the opportunity to minimize your stress is a good idea. Also, I'm glad to know you are being monitored by a GP. That is important to continue as well. I'm wishing you much good luck on your journey. I know the feelings of despair well, but your brain CAN and WILL heal. It's just going to take you giving yourself the time to rehabilitate. I would love to know how you're doing along your journey. I hope you'll keep in touch. Also, I conduct free recovery support meetings every Wednesday at 12:00 Eastern. Not sure where you live or if that would be convenient or even interesting to you, but wanted to let you know. Continue to take good care of yourself. Thanks again for sharing your story. 💜 KJ

[@marissasellmer6933]

Really needed to hear this. I have had countless episodes of paws. Big and small. Anxiety or anger. 224 days sober.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Congrats on your 224 days!

[@johnfarrell8832]

I've been off opiates for 8 days, no more physical pain but depression and intrusive thoughts are very hard to cope with.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi John - First of all, congrats of the 8 days!! And I hope that you have some support in your efforts to stay clean. The symptoms you are experiencing are normal, but I would recommend that if the symptoms worsen you seek medical counsel with an addictionologist or psychiatrist that specializes in opiate recovery. Stay strong. It's a difficult road, but trust me, it's so worth the struggle.

[@mycatiswaysmarterthanmosto8500]

How are you doing with it buddy? I hope you're well!❤

[@sangeetalambh6389]

John how r u now

[@professorb3744]

Going through a bad day of PAWS today. This sucks but it’s comforting to know that this too shall pass. Thanks for the information

[@DRKJFOSTER]

You're welcome. I'm sorry to hear that you've been struggling. And it will get better. It just takes time... and then you never have to go through it again!! I hope you're feeling better soon.

[@bungle3912]

Great video. This happened to me. I detoxed from methadone after tapering and found it easy with minimal withdrawal. I was happy, positive, and had zero withdrawal effects. Then on day 18, it hit me with all the withdrawal feelings and depression, anxiety, etc. It was awful. And it takes aaaaaages to fix. Though as I was always told: 'you can't expect to fix a 12 year opiate habit in two months'.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Thank you for sharing your experience. Yes, you can expect years of use to resolve itself in a few months. Glad to know you are recovering.

[@24mbronc]

It can be very difficult to find a good understanding doctor to help u through this time of hardship. I wish u would were in my network and near my location, i just love your approach and the fact that youve been through what u are trying to help other people get through is simply amazing!! Thank you for this video

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Thank you so much for your kind words 💜 It is much appreciated!

[@banke8480]

Can't believe so many people have same symptoms. Brain is amazing. Im strugling 3rd month ,but now im looking at paws as a healing process,and coming out of it without addiction. My addiction was realy strong,and im glad still being alive.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Yes!! Keep reminding yourself that your brain is healing and even though it's uncomfortable your body and brain is getting better!!

[@banke8480]

@@DRKJFOSTER i remember when it started. Had severe DPDR,with al of these PAWS symptoms,scary thoughts, scary dreams...now i have feeling like im coming out of clouds. Life is going to be good again.

[@banke8480]

@@DRKJFOSTER and when I'm looking at the past,i can't believe i have done so many things,like that wasn't myself. That was my addiction,my soul was crying.

[@avreetarrant5291]

@@banke8480how long did you have PAWS? Are you better?

[@chrisbee5355]

Exactly! Triggers. When I wrote my own recovery program, I realized I had to actually REPRORAM my brain. I used my skills from Hypnosis school to do this. Making a list of TRIGGERS BEFORE you tackle this is part of my program. But when we look @ what we are trying to block, it sure does help to recover!!! Forgive YOURSELF for being HUMAN! LIGHTEN UP! Literally imagine the light of pure LOVE illuminating your physical form, you WILL cry! LOL, Good thing to get it out. If you allow FEAR to keep you from taking 1st step, you may end up living with addiction for DECADES!! FEAR is debilitating! Opposite of FAITH!

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi Chris - Thanks for sharing your experience. I agree 100%.

[@nathanomalley2254]

Thank you for the information! I had covid in February and started binge drinking whiskey for about 3 weeks to cope and to feel better. My drinking had slowly ramped up again after quitting in 2017. When I eventually tested negative I started to cut back and immediately developed insomnia. I quit drinking on March 8 and it became more severe. I went to the doctor and she confirmed I was in the acute withdrawal phase, accidentally triggered when I had covid. This video has been so helpful and encouraging that it will get better. I had no idea a short phase of heavy drinking could trigger withdrawals, but it makes sense given my history.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

I'm so glad to know you found this helpful, and that you are hopefully doing better now.

[@sangeetalambh6389]

Nathan how r u now

[@nathanomalley2254]

@@sangeetalambh6389 just celebrated 8 months sober!! I’ll have an occasional bad day but have been completely restored. Sleep is back to normal, anxiety has gone away, cravings are gone, and mental clarity is greatly improved. God is good.

[@sangeetalambh6389]

@@nathanomalley2254 did u feel emptyness liike depersonalization in ur withdrawal please ans I m 8 month sober now

[@banke8480]

@@nathanomalley2254 congrats brother

[@unklebidii]

Through 5 months clean from alcohol, I've been feeling unmotivated. Gained weight due to bad diet(major demotivator). I used to be consistent in the gym, but lately seems to be a struggle to get into a good routine. Lately I've been dealing with brain fog, spaciness/light headed feeling, anxiety, slight fatigue.... It's exhausting having to restart a gym program or clean eating habits but I'm trying to be gentle with myself and not so hard. I tend to think, Hey, at least I'm sober. I will get back to where I was physically and mentally. But this is the first time I've really experienced these symptoms. One day at a time... This video was reassuring. Sometimes it feels like something is wrong with me or question if I'm losing it, which leads to overthinking, worriness, etc. Mix of emotions.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Be gentle with yourself! That is the best approach 🤗

[@joshuap1678]

I feel the same way, brother. Hang in there. We’re going to come out stronger than ever ❤

[@chuckthesham5195]

I am in an IOP and we are going through some of Dr. Foster's videos. They are awesome. I am having PAWS from benzos and they are wild.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi Chuck. Glad to hear you and your IOP are benefiting from my videos. PAWS is definitely a struggle, but remember... you will get through it and you never have to feel this way again. Sending positive vibes your way 🙏

[@CBT5777]

@@DRKJFOSTER Not true. I'm permanently damaged by benzos. My muscles will never be the way they were before benzos.

[@sunsarasunsara4815]

Thank you doctor for this I'm 50 days in and really struggled few days ago and although i know paws , as i learnt it in rehab in uk, forgot about it. You explained it perfectly the brain (hedonic system) is going back to normal and be prepared as the glutamate creates a drug cue and can be dangerous when you are in a bad place. Really needed this and have sent it to friends as in the UK who are recovering

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Thanks so much for the feedback, Sunsara. I am glad you found it helpful. Congratulations on your nearly 60 days of sobriety. I am sorry to hear yiu are strughling, but of course not surprised. It was one of the most difficult things I've ever done, but hands down the best. Definitely hang in there and keep moving forward. I"m rooting for you 💜

[@sunsarasunsara4815]

@@DRKJFOSTER thank you very much

[@sangeetalambh6389]

Sunsara did u feel fatigue like no spirit in body and stomach cramps in ur withdrawal please ans I m 79 days sober still feel these sym

[@sunsarasunsara4815]

@@sangeetalambh6389 yes sangeeta just have to lush through butiworked a programm AA

[@garysimone4977]

​@@sunsarasunsara4815 hi, it's been 3 yrs how you. Doing

[@reginaprovenzano8454]

“Know your enemy”…..I believe information is key, thank you!

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Absolutely!

[@Karenkmc1]

Thank you it’ll be 3 years for me this August ❤️❤️❤️

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Congratulations!! I didn't realize when I replied to another comment that you are in recovery yourself. You are leading by example for your daughter and modeling recovery.

[@Karenkmc1]

DR. KJ FOSTER yes I know this now but loving her from afar is so hard

[@sangeetalambh6389]

@@Karenkmc1 how r u now friend

[@todaysnarrative879]

Been a couple months off Klonopin and I thought I was going crazy till I found out about PAWS This video gives me hope I will get thru it

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Glad it was able to give you hope. Much good luck to you on your journey!

[@BuffaloBarber24]

Thank you for this video. It has really helped. I’m 13 months off Valium and still dealing with fatigue, tinnitus, head pressure and brain fog. As well as histamine intolerance. Would you say it’s still par for the course to not be healed yet this far out? Starting to get very concerned. I was on them for 15 years. Look forward to hearing back. Thanks!

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi Chuck. Yes, it's normal. The "average" is 18 months and sometimes it can take longer. The good news is that you will get through it eventually. I'm glad you found the video helpful.

[@BuffaloBarber24]

@@DRKJFOSTER thank you very much for the reply.

[@nathan_the_barbarian7974]

This makes a lot of sense. I’m a week shy of having 7 months sober. First 2 weeks were hell on my psyche I was a constant nervous wreck. After a few weeks I felt better, at times I felt awesome! Then I would hit a low where just trying to get up for the day was hard. After a while I fixed my diet and was getting back into intense weight lifting and was feeling the best I had in months if not years. Then I got hit with covid in late September. Now granted I didn’t get that sick but shortly after that I started turning into a nervous wreck. And since I work in a retirement home I’m constantly surrounded by covid. And now with the fallout of election night going on and I haven’t been taking care of my diet and overall well being I feel like I’m dealing with the stress and anxiety I had during week one. Nice to know it’s just not me and I’m cracking up or something.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi Nathan - Definitely sounds like you have a lot on your plate, and stress is the #1 contributor or trigger, if you will, for PAWS to kick in. I'm glad to know you found the information helpful and congratulations on your 7 months sober!! 💜🎉🙌

[@akaixl83]

Same here I’m 8 - 9 months sober and here in Ohio being cold and not much to do outside my paws has been a daily thing I hope it’s normal which it seems like it is, I drank for 17 years I’m 38

[@sangeetalambh6389]

Nathan did u feel extreme fatigue

[@sangeetalambh6389]

@@akaixl83 did u feel extreme fatigue

[@nathan_the_barbarian7974]

@@sangeetalambh6389 in my first 3 months yes, big time. I would go days in a row where I would be dragging ass to do anything. But then I would get that a day where I felt normal and would try to do my normal gym workouts or something that required a good amount of energy to do and then for the next few days I would barely be able to get out of bed.But even now closing in on 14 months I have more energy but I still have to watch what I do or I still find myself getting wiped out easily. It’s getting better though, just hand in there!

[@mamtagandhi5990]

Just watched video amazing information. Very helpful to understand my love one who’s going through paws last night. I think I handled it very nicely.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi Mamta - I'm so happy you found it helpful 💜

[@lynnmcquillan2338]

Well done - good advice - a mother 🥰👍🙏

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Thank you. I'm glad you found it beneficial.

[@Desi-Rose]

TY for this. I'm SOOO scared to go through this!😮

[@DRKJFOSTER]

You can do it and think of how good you're going to feel when you make it to the other side.

[@biancaheeren4809]

This is an amazing video!!!!

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Glad you found it helpful.

[@bondoneill9606]

Excellent information, that really helps. Thanks so much xx

[@DRKJFOSTER]

You're welcome 💜 I'm glad you found it helpful!

[@richardwrynn824]

I'm 13 months in recovery, and paws will try to make you believe you are losing your mind, It's a daily battle to constantly remind myself that it's paws and it won't last. Living one moment at a time becomes such a reality when symptom strike seemingly out of nowhere. I have had symptoms of ocd emerge almost after a year where I would compulsively touch things and organize things.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi Richard - Congratulations on your 13 months!! Keep pushing through and also I hope you are seeing someone regarding your OCD symptoms to be sure you are addressing any and all underlying issues that may be present. Thanks for sharing your experience and I apologize for the late response.

[@6666666662]

@@DRKJFOSTER this is quite interesting. I’m 10 months clean and haven’t slept well since day 1. I’m finding Tourette type symptoms and twitching upon falling asleep to be the biggest problem. I means it’s gotten a little better but every time I think I’m in the clear I’m hit with 2-3 days of this insomnia/Tourette’s with the blurting out words and sound effects/ twitching episodes. I’ve googled it a thousand times. Could it be the SSRI’s I’m taking for the past 10 years are now too much because I’m off opiates? Is it PAWS still? Im going nuts. Sometimes I sleep 2 hours one night and then 1 hour the next night. Then on the 3rd night I say ok I’m gonna conk out and sleep for 9 hours I only sleep 4-5. Im mentally sound and happy. It’s just this major sleep problem. Could it be PAWS after 10 months!?

[@ladybug6055]

Omg! I wished I had known of this year's ago I went through this and had no clue as to what was going I thought I was losing my mind it did have me going back to use trying to regain my senses and more but I just ended up repeating it. Could not understand it was afraid at that time that it was going to be a long-term situation. Later I went the whole mile not giving up and I'm clean now it feels so good and that crap is not worth going back to what so ever.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi lady bug - thanks for watching. I, too, wish I had known this info when I was going through it. Would have made it so much easier. So glad to know that you persevered and you're now clean. I hope you have a wonderful day!

[@sangeetalambh6389]

@@DRKJFOSTER can nicoteen withdrawal cause Depersonalization

[@anthonygraetz4746]

Still in process of PAWS was a benzodiazepine addict for 12 years and I’m only 31. Got started from a legitimate doctor and let me tell you it’s been pure hell.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

I feel for you, Anthony. Benzos are difficult. Please keep reminding yourself that as long as you keep going, you'll never have to feel this way again.

[@irey1978]

Detox was hard but quick, but Paws is a whole different animal to deal with. Quitting booze was easier then weed. Day 76 sober and paws hits like a freight train. Thank you for your videos!

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Thanks for watching and for sharing your experience, Keith💜 I, too, had the freight train experience! I hope you are feeling better soon. Congrats on your sobriety!!

[@irey1978]

Day 108 just went through 4 days of severe PAWS. Was doing good till stress triggered four days of depression. Like you said" Its does lift as soon as it starts." Those four days were tough to get through.

[@chrisbee5355]

Everyone is different. It depends on if you are hooked physically AND emotionally, or not. And which was your substance of CHOICE! Some can put down weed like it was nothing. some, alcohol.

[@chrisbee5355]

BE PREPARED! Self Forgiveness EMPOWERS YOU! Paper, pen, for listing TRIGGERS of relapse. Plenty of WATER, Electrolytes, whatever you will utilize for healthiest withdrawal. Have it READY! Whether it will be Kratom, Chong's Choice CBD, OR small amounts of anti-anxiety meds. Keep mind busy, have HEALTHY foods, Cherries, grape juice, chia seeds, Anti-oxidants Probiotic yogurt for healthy shakes. Time to REPROGRAM your BRAIN!

[@irey1978]

Celebrating 18 months clean off weed after 24 years. Still going through PAWS. Its mild now compared to the first year. Thanks for your videos they have helped me greatly. Can you do a video on detox/ PAWS related to weed? You touched on marijuana addiction but it would be a great resource if you did a separate video on this topic alone. In years to come with legalization you will see more people with this addiction come into recovery. When I quit I found much of the information online is outdated or incorrect. Thanks again!

[@luisdejesus1758]

I am almost 5 months sober from a 6 year daily use of cocaïne . Everything has been going well my mood was better i was meditating and motivated. For the past week and a half im a wreck . I cant meditate anymore , i feel empty and tired , i wanna cry but nothing comes up everything annoys me My therapist said im having PAWS im scared its gonna stay like that forever and i love being sober 😢

[@DRKJFOSTER]

It's definitely PAWS, Luis. Hopefully by the time your reading this, you have already started to improve.

[@dracosmith5337]

Hi Dr Foster, you've been very helpful to me and I just want to thank you for replying to my previous comments, it's really appreciated! Is there a specific antidepressant that can ease the burden of PAWS and also allow recovery to go on behind the scenes? At 14 months I'm in need of some relief, but I'm scared that using the wrong antidepressant will set me back to the start.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi Draco - Glad you are finding the videos helpful. I'm not an MD, so I can't really give you any recommendations on what might work for you. I do suggest you seek out a psychiatrist who specializes in treating people with substance use disorders or an addictionologist. Most general practitioners do not know how to treat substance use and/or PAWS issues. You're on the right track in looking for recommendations, but look for a good referral for a doctor in your area 👍

[@andreamorato1529]

​@@zonnebloem100 does it help? I'm 6 months clean of mariguana and alcohol and I feel so depressed

[@k.f.9875]

Thank you very much. It was so complete and thorough.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@cindyl9606]

ty for all ur help im just starting my journey off narco n Xanax and ive watched several of ur videos and got a lot of great info tytyty

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Thank you, Cindy 💜

[@mattbortz10]

35 days off suboxone after 13 years. Still in post acute. Sleep is getting better, still have lower energy, still get tired at work, still feel blah.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Congrats. Keep going. It will get better.

[@Love-hx6nb]

what i would like to know if mental illness can happen during recovery

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Yes

[@Love-hx6nb]

@@DRKJFOSTER what are the signs 😟

[@kindsir2734]

Good info, thanks. I believe I am experiencing this right now.I have been completely off Morphine/ oxycodone for about 5 weeks after decade of prescribed use- I used it for pain control after surgeries. I experience nausea, achey all over not just the surgury site. Insomnia and foggy thinking. Tough to believe this could go on for 2 years, off and on

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Thanks for sharing your experience, Tony. The good news is that you are healing and getting better. Hopefully it won't take 2 years. Try not to think about how long it will take, but the fact that you are on the road to recovery and getting better.

[@sumit2082]

@@sangeetalambh6389 hi sangeeta i have stomach troubles it's been 6 months cold turkey been on codeine for 23 yrs lot of bloating pain and constipation what were u hooked on to

[@sangeetalambh6389]

@@sumit2082 I used benzos and SSRI dr prescribe me for 4 months .(alc and nicoteen withdrawal) then quit

[@sangeetalambh6389]

Tony how r u now

[@junkettarp8942]

Thanks for the video. Makes sense.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

You're welcome. I hope you found it helpful.

[@Banana-lk7tf]

What you say at 14:35 is what's been happening with my husband. I have no idea how to cope with his mood swings, depression, anxiety, etc. He's even at the point where he's starting to exhibit bizarre and hurtful behaviour (when he's tired). It's like he's half asleep/drunk/has dementia. He'll slur his words, start swearing like crazy, go on rants that don't make sense, is unable to comprehend simple things, unable to have a coherent conversation, and will eat with his hands (pasta, rice, steak). It's happening 3-5 days a weak, and he's been sober for 10 months. At first, he just got depression, which came about 3 weeks after he quit drinking. But for the last few months, he started exhibiting all these strange behaviours. I'm in desperate need of help. We live alone, with no one close by to help, not even friends, and I have a chronic, debilitating illness. I need him to be present in this marriage, but when he gets like this, he completely cheks out. He doesnt communicate with me, help me with anything around the house, eat meals with me or eat at all (goes days without eating when he's having PAWS), honour his commitments, is missing time from work and not performing up to his regular standards, self-sabotages himself by staying up super late/not sleeping on work nights, sleeps all day/night, and doesn't ask how I'm doing or if I need help with anything. I've been sick for 2 years and he was helpful and caring before he quit drinking. I thought that everything would be better after he quit, but things have been horrible since. Please tell me he will get better, things will get better. I feel so hopeless.

[@bernardsoberg1953]

Alanon!

[@notbyaccident84]

I’m 2 days from 2 years 6 months and I’m still experiencing some of these issues but my awareness of them has been helpful to continue on this journey. I really refuse to start over and don’t want to cut myself off from Source I.E God… I have more work to do in this lifetime and I need to be sober minded to be of max service

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Congratulations of nearly 2 and a half years of sobriety, Jeff!! That's wonderful.! Definitely keep going. It's so worth it!!

[@gardenofvalhalla9329]

I Stopped drinking alcohol 8 months ago. My acute withdrawal lasted 10 days straight. Ive had a few bad days here and there with dizziness follwed with anxiety/panic attack. But have felt great most day since then. But this week out of nowhere its all these symptoms hit me harder. Ive had consist brainfog messing with thinking and memory, anxiety high and driving make me super nervous. I dont have the want to drink again because the experience has been terrifying at time. Im just trying to stay busy and positive that this will pass.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

It will pass. Sounds very much like first experience of PAWS, which means your brain IS healing!

[@gardenofvalhalla9329]

Update: so far, I've had the brain fog straight for 13 days (still having thinking and memory issues.) I do seem somewhat calmer around day 10ish. Crazy to believe this can come out of nowhere 8 months later. Have you heard of some paws episodes lasting this long?

[@gardenofvalhalla9329]

21 days straight, got blood work and MRI done, all look good. But this is scary.

[@dankaropelejamo7537]

Thanks so much for sharing this because it's like tailored made for me. It's exactly what am going through right now. Today's my 43rd day of quitting alcohol. Continue the good work

[@DRKJFOSTER]

You're welcome, Dankaro. Congratulations on your 43 days. I'm glad you found the video helpful.

[@marklopez808]

I'm trying to conduct some research for myself on this, addiction, recovery, etc. I met a woman some number of years ago, we became casual friends, then an opportunity arose to become more, being ghosted, some months later rediscovery, disappearance again, then a year later rediscovery and initiating a dating relationship. In that time, finding out she had issues with alcohol abuse, but she chalked it up to high anxiety which triggered the self-medicating "to forget". Nearly a year later, a complete relapse. After a month voluntarily checking-into and staying at an inpatient behavioral health center, and now a week out, it's clear she wants a relationship to continue, and I'm afraid it was used as a motivator to enter and stay inside, and now the expectation for me to keep it while she's beginning earliest of recovery measures with barely trying to find an outpatient program to stick to. I never knew something like this existed for people surrounding those with addiction.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi Horatius - Sounds like a difficult situation for you and it is admirable that you are seeking information for yourself. I hope you are finding these videos helpful.

[@angelicarcturianmessagesan2830]

Thank you for this 🙏🏻❤️

[@DRKJFOSTER]

You're welcome. I"m glad you found it helpful 💜

[@khaledsameer2778]

Great information, thank you very much. I have a question, does paws happen after quitting a behavioral addiction as well?

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Thank you. Yes, it can happen with a behavioral addiction.

[@karencondon2003]

So informative 🙏🏼💜🌹

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Glad it was helpful!

[@kindsir2734]

I have been following these video's lately. I am a post opiod person, prescribed by physicians. Many years of constant use and stopped suddenly in Jan 2020. No treatment center was involved but enrolled in Counciling and N.A. It has been tough. I do want my brain back- am experiencing post acute events.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi Tony, nice to meet you. I think that knowing that post-acute withdrawals are normal and part of the process, is helpful for many. It certainly would've helped me, had I known when I was going through it. Since you just stopped in January, what you are experiencing is definitely normal and just keep going because yiu will get better, and will get your brain back.

[@uapnewdiscoveryimages]

I am really struggling with this. I was on multiple prescription medications, and was on them for over 15 years, some mornings when I open my eyes I feel like I’m withdrawing again…horrible anxiety

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Sorry for the late response, I'm just seeing this for some reason. I'm so sorry to hear you are struggling. After 15 years there will definitely be significant withdrawal symptoms, but the good news is that you will get better over time.

[@anupsingh1824]

Thx.your advice is realy apprciable pl.go ahead to serve the human being u r great

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Thank you so much.

[@rumplestilskinsmum5094]

I have never heard this explained in a better Way, thank u for that first of all! If this info would have been available to me 35 years ago that would have been of such help! I am older now and had to figure this out for myself, after 20 years of rehab/relapsing circle. I was what u may call a functioning Addict ( Heroine form my early 30th to my mid 40th) I did rarely go over my daily limit as I had a good Job, so I excused this as self medicating but it all really started with prescription Drugs = Prozac for prenatal depression-valium cos Prozac made me hipper active etc. That eventually led to the Weed as I didn't like being hooked on prescription Drugs and spiraled into Opium (smoking). PAWS is hard to deal with especially "IF YOU DONT KNOW", were it is coming from. Over 20 years out of this cycle and I am happy to see that there is People like you now to explain the realities of Addiction and the after effects so well.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Thanks for the kind words. It is absolutely true that when you know what you are experiencing is a normal part of the process of your brain healing, it makes it so much easier to cope with. I'm glad to know you are healing and moving forward.

[@sunmeetmathadu1634]

Quitting drinking from today, wish me luck 🙏☀️

[@DRKJFOSTER]

That's fantastic, Sunmiit! I am here rooting for you. Keep me posted on your progress and let me know if there is anything I can do to help!!

[@sunmeetmathadu1634]

@@DRKJFOSTER Never heard such encouraging words from no-one, you have a good heart 🙏

[@24mbronc]

@@sunmeetmathadu1634 How is your recovery going? Im currently at my 7 month point and was curious how someone who is relatively close to my quitting date is handling things. Hope everything is working out for u. Ive had a couple of slip ups but quickly got back on track because i didnt want to go back down that path again. I drank a couple of bottles of wine daily for roughly 8 years and prior to that was mostly drinking the hard stuff for about 7 years. Im guessing PAWS will take a little longer for me because of that. I would love to hear your story if u were ok with it. I wish u the best

[@coolbeans6148]

@@24mbronc im at 4 months. When does the hard heart pounding go away? I get palpitations aswell. I cant do any physical exersise because of this.

[@sangeetalambh6389]

Best wishesSunmiit

[@unrealtalks7242]

3 weeks off methadone! I never got prescribed, got it from a friend who said it would help me get off other pills.. ended up taking it for 2 years .. worst decision of my life. After 3 weeks I still can’t eat, can’t sleep without help, and still get restless legs, depression, always feel weak ( no energy ).. I want to relapse so bad but the only thing stopping me is from dealing with this again.. but I don’t necessarily see a light at the end of the tunnel here.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi there - I'm so sorry to hear you are struggling with this issue. You are not alone in your experience of taking something that a friend suggested and then finding out it wasn't the right thing for you. My best advice is to suggest that you see a doctor who specializes in substance use withdrawal, especially methodone. They will be able to guide you as to what you may be able to take that will help with your withdrawal symptoms, at least to get you through the worst of it.

[@rameshlumb4003]

Quit alc nicotine and ssri now feel depersonalization 180 days sober now sleep 7 hours daily when I heal

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi Ramesh - It's common to feel the way you are feeling. I'm not sure how long for the depersonalization. It really depends. The good news is that you're 180 days in and that much closer to full recovery!!

[@leannemcgurk8523]

I have had horrendous physical symptoms and anxiety off and on for months . Is this common? They have been debilitating ( pulsating head/ body, tinnitus squeezing head pressure, flu symptoms) has anyone you know experienced this, the physical is worse than the mental.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Yes, it is common. However, having said that, please be sure to see a doctor who specializes in treating individuals who are recovering from substance issues. It's always better to be safe and see somehow who you can share your health history with.

[@kristinowens899]

I just wish I had someone to talk to about this, who really knows. I just can't wrap my head around how I can feel so good one day, but so bad the next. If everything in my body is in a place that I feel so good, why isn't it the next day??? I'm on Day 11 of absolutely no suboxone. Took it as prescribed for 5 years, and had myself down to 2mg/day, then 1mg for the last two days, then stopped. I TRIED to get into detox, and I didn't "qualify" That made me angry, and it felt like what's the point?? Pretty sure the worst is over now, well physically anyway, I'm feeling pretty bad in my head. Yesterday, Day 10 I had this extreme sadness, not as bad today yet but I've only been up about two hours, and things seem to get worse as the day goes. I will NEVER take anything that causes withdrawal again!!!! NOTHING!!!!!! EVER!!!!!

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi Kristin - I apologize for the late reply. I'm just seeing this comment for some reason. Remember, you took your body is used to the level of suboxone it has had for the past 5 years. It has become dependent on this substance. Just as my husband has become dependent on his blood pressure medication, just as we are "dependent" on food. Your brain is causing symptoms due to the flux in brain chemistry. That is what is causing the bouts of sadness and other symptoms. It will come and go, but know that it means your brain is healing. My heart goes out to you because I know suboxone withdrawal is not easy. But it is worth it, in that you never will have to go through it again. Because, as you said, you can use it as motivation to never take anything that causes withdrawal again. I hope you're having a better time of it today. Sending lots of positive vibes your way.

[@BlackVibeBallsack]

There's no fkn way I'm gonna make it 2 years.... Goddammit I hate this life

[@DRKJFOSTER]

I'm so sorry to hear that you're suffering. PAWS come and go for 2 years. You are not in a perpetual state of PAWS. Hang in there, it does get better eventually.

[@leonidtodorovski635]

😂😂😂😂 I have not a good today but your comment made me laugh so much love to heal I’m 6 months of subs and paws are no joke I lost more thru my paws than thru my addiction from pills and I’m fighting as hard as I can it goes a way and it comes back

[@9tsankov]

Hello! I have to ask something. What is the feeling after Paws? It is like a god bless moment and after that, you feel yourself again perfect. Or this rollercoaster of symptoms, fellings are getting easier with the time, before they go away. Greetings and Super Video!

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi Asen - It generally starts out as a bit of a roller coaster where the highs and lows become more and more spaced out. In the beginning, lots of ups and downs and then typically longer and longer periods where symptoms subside. I don't know that there is any "perfect," at least not in my world, but I can say that I am better and stronger and more resilient than I ever was before my addiction. Thanks for watching and I'm glad to know you enjoyed the video.

[@avalonmist254]

What about physical symptoms such as 8 weeks of serious bowel problems? From Tramadol and Opiate withdrawal

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Yes, this is very common too! Especially when withdrawing from opioids.

[@avalonmist254]

@@DRKJFOSTER Thank you I thought I was crazy

[@barrymcoc8171]

I’m going on 2 months off Heroin and I’m still out of energy, fatigued, and anxious all day long. Am I still dope sick? I don’t see how much longer I will feel this because it’s hell going to Work under the Sun feeling like this. I learned my lesson, never will I do heroin again.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi Francisco, I'm sorry you are feeling so bad. I hope you are feeling better soon and I'm glad you are using your experience as fuel for your recovery.

[@motoman1075]

Sme here💯

[@barrymcoc8171]

@@motoman1075 it seems like when the Sun hits you, all the symptoms of being sick come out in full.

[@littleone1102]

See I had a very hard withdrawal mine lasted a long time and it was not PAWS yet. I was throwing up for a month straight. I depends on your body and how much you did. PAWS for me was mainly about 3 months of lack of energy and started to regain sleep. I had restless body for 2 years and which is why I could sleep but clonidine helped that at night. Took about 2 years to control my emotions and not to over think or over react. Definitely worth it tho I could never go threw that again I don't have it in me. You got this tho really just work on yourself. I think I'm around 6 years now. One thing that is weird that never went away tho is if I get stressed out I sneeze 20 times in a row like I'm dope sick. I think once your done with PAWS the cravings are gone too. Also I think it came in waves with feeling like crap and then feeling better also

[@motoman1075]

@@littleone1102 Bro i have used heroin for 3years on daily basic my age is 20 now and i am in detox for last 6month 6month passed but withdrawal symptoms are not at all going i had also used alchohol+weed to cut off the cold turkey but no use🥺😂fucking body aches,fatigue,joint pain,lots of water always came out from my eyes when i start 🥱yawning, lots of saliva in mouth, neck feels ockward and i always sleep at morning time whole night I used to think no sleep at all bro insomnia happening 💔what should I do bro please help me

[@chrisbee5355]

Oh my! I forgot important point! Relapse is important part of process of finally succeeding in Complete Recovery! NEVER EVER try to beat yourself up for SHORT relapse! Forgive SELF & keep it MOVING forward. As, sometimes in 1st year or 2, we must remind ourselves WHY we had to stop the cycle in the 1st place!!! Thanx!

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Agree 💜 Thank you!

[@whatistrue0293]

Someday I will heal... 14 months off Lexapro. 10 months off loritab. 8 months off Xanax and 3 months off Seroquel. Insomnia, muscle pain and air hunger are my worst symptoms. What a ride it has been....

[@DRKJFOSTER]

OMG, that is awesome!! A wild ride, indeed. I'm sure you have been experiencing some heavy duty PAWS. And, YES, you WILL HEAL!! Insomnia was my worst too. That's when I started journaling and writing poetry because I couldn't sleep and my mind was racing. Keep going and it does eventually get better and better. I promise 💜

[@whatistrue0293]

DR. KJ FOSTER you rock....

[@BuffaloBarber24]

@@whatistrue0293 how r u now?

[@Healinglove]

By accident, NY psychiatrist vmb was full for a week, I've been forced to stop my Clonapen 1-2 MG per night for year's. 4 day's no medication. Taking Benadryl, hopefully I'll sleep. I had bad stomach cramps earlier today and horrible insomnia 😫

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi Sandi - I'm sorry to hear you are suffering. I hope you were able to get some sleep 🙏

[@Healinglove]

@@DRKJFOSTER, I'm still having a VERY tough time, I'm getting my Clonapen today, BUT instead of taking 2mg at night, I will start with 1mg since I've made it this far, but this cold turkey is WAAAY too painful for me, so I will work with my doctor to decrease slowly over time. LOVE THIS VIDEO! YOU'RE THE BEST OUT HERE. HAPPY NEW YEAR!! 🥳

[@katrinamenzies9398]

@@Healinglove Ashton manual look it up

[@sandbach7195]

Lasted a little over 2 1/2 years for me.

[@billsimms2511]

None of my counselors even told me about PAWS. Disappointing I had to find out about it on my Own

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi Bill - Unfortunately, you are not alone in your experience. I don't know why so many people are unaware of this phase of recovery. Thanks for watching and hopefully you found the information to be helpful.

[@bonekollektor1659]

I'm 6 weeks alcohol free & all the sudden I started getting palpitations & anxiety. Got checked at a heart hospital & they said I'm fine. That was good peace of mind but this is a real sum b*tch. Not giving up!

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Yes, keep going. Sounds like classic PAWS to me.

[@runamuck316]

Do you experience 2 straight years of negative PAWS effects? Or do they come and go sporadically throughout the two years? If so, how long do the periods of PAWS last and how many episodes can you expect?

[@DRKJFOSTER]

They will generally come and go.

[@user-ur3gq8vb1g]

My second day of tramadol withdrawals is hell i cannot sleep,pain all my body,no energy

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Sorry to hear that you are suffering and hope you are able to experience healing and ultimately relief of your suffering.

[@BC-iz8gt]

My anxiety is 10 fold into 2weeks. Never had bp problems now my blood pressure is high neck pain. Doctorsays its from stress n blood pressure being up, hoping it will subside when this mess is over please

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Yes, it will subside. It is just going to take time. It is good that you are being monitored by your doctor.

[@Blackmoonsoulx]

I have been using risperdal and Carbamazepine for only three months and I will quit them around January. Do I have to recover two years for only using them 4 months?? :'(

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Hi Robert, sorry but I can't tell you that. #1 is that I'm not too familiar with these particular substances and #2 I don't know your health history. There are so many factors that come into play regarding your experience of withdrawal. Since you've only been using them for a few months, it may not take you that long, but I don't know how much, why or it it will require you weaning rather than abruptly stopping. I assume you are being monitored by a physician.

[@mardishores4016]

The medical field DOES NOT KNOW, WHAT OR HOW TO HELP!!!

[@DRKJFOSTER]

These is true of many, but not all.

[@mardishores4016]

@@DRKJFOSTER I am on a fixed income as I am 72 yrs. old, was prescribed over 20 different psychiatric drugs for over 30 yrs. Have Tardive Dyskinesia, brain damage, nerve damage, parasthesia, akasthesia, bone aches, tremors, no sleep(what's that?) Have lost relationships with almost everyone. Don't have the finances to go to a 'rehab' facility, AND, what? Are they going to keep me there for 10 yrs, or more. Anhedonia,? YUP. Have 2 failed(obviously) suicide attempts.Too afraid to try that again, probably end up a vegetable and STILL ALIVE!!! ALL I want is to DIE. APATHY now about life,as I am not able to enjoy ANYTHING, not even my dogs, because of 24/7 irritability at everything and everyone. My entire body(including the brain, of course) and mind has been destroyed. The psychiatry is a pseudo science. The DSM should be re-named the BillingCode for dr. caused mental disorders and illness. I appreciate your compassion, however thousands of peoples lives have been destroyed by these neuro toxic chemicals that are packaged in pretty little pills. What a SHAM, BIG PHARMA and the FDA. $$$$$ YUP. Thank you for responding to my first post. Have a great day, hopefully someday (lol) these money making poisons will be banned. Check out Peter Breggin and a host of other psychiatrists who are the whistle-blowers on this tragedy.

[@susangraham1203]

The muscle rigidity pain and mouth problems are driving me nuts. I can't stand the pain, but I refuse to take anything for it. My gut is a mess. I have been off of Effexor/Lexapro for 5 months now. I just want the good Lord to take me home.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

Oh no, Susan. I'm so sorry to hear of your suffering. Are you being monitored by a physician or psychiatrist.? Why are you not taking anything? I get wanting to be off of everything, but often it needs to be a gradual process and taking a non-narcotic mood stabalizer for the short-term may help some of your uncomfortable symptoms. It's just important to seek a dr who is familiar with dependency and your health history.

[@susangraham1203]

@@DRKJFOSTER Thank you for your response. I am not taking anything because the pain I am experiencing was caused by the antidepressants I was on and I am afraid of taking anything else because it may cause more pain. Also my gut is such a mess I don't want to make it worse. I had a microbiome test done and I am missing more then half of the gut bacteria I should have.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

@@susangraham1203 I can relate to the gut issue. Not sure how old you are, but I'm 58 and my gut issues had been a problem for so many years. I wound up in the hospital a few times and they thought it might be an ulcer and I didn't want to go in for the endoscopy they were suggesting. I changed my diet, etc. and then I started learning about the microbiomes and discovered something called MCT powder by Naomi Whittel. I bought the power on Amazon and mix it into my yogurt every day and I'm a different person. No gut bloat. It has something to do with the microbiomes. Please talk to your doctor about it, as I wouldn't want you to take something without checking it against your own health history and doctor recommendations, but it has saved my life (I think literally). So much so, I wanted to share with you so you can research yourself.

[@susangraham1203]

@@DRKJFOSTER I am 63 and I am on about 10 different supplements. I am going for a CT on Thursday because I have gallbladder/liver/pancreas pain. All of these are listed as a side effect of both Effexor and Lexapro. Thank you for your kindness.

[@DRKJFOSTER]

@@susangraham1203 good luck with the scan 🙏💜